SC State University Day in the S.C. Legislature, March 7

Wednesday, March 7, 2007

ORANGEBURG – SC State alumni, students, faculty and staff, friends and supporters are preparing to converge upon the State Capitol to showcase the institution’s successes and to present a case for funding in several key areas.
South Carolina State University Day in the Legislature will be held on Wednesday, March 7, at the State Capitol in Columbia. The day begins at 9 a.m. at the Gressette Building, and will continue throughout the day with visits with legislators and attendance in House and Senate sessions.

SC State supporters will have an opportunity through their visits with state legislators to present a case for funding in four key areas, including deferred maintenance, capital improvements, legislation and special programs.

SC State seeks $27 million to address deferred maintenance issues through the repair and upgrade of three academic buildings – Moss, Staley and Nance halls – and the improvement of campus infrastructure.

“Deferred maintenance is a major issue for all of the nation’s historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs), including SC State,” said Edwin Givens, special assistant to the president for legal and governmental affairs. “It’s a hold-over from historic underfunding to public HBCUs nationwide prior to integration that continues to affect how quickly some repairs can be implemented. Letting the small issues in structures accumulate can create large challenges over time.”

“Through continued and increased appropriations, and an increase in alumni support and private financial gifts to SC State, we hope to bridge the divide,” he added.

Appropriations are also sought for capital improvements – including the construction of a new library and a health disparities and community education center; and continued funding of the S.C. Program for the Recruitment and Retention of Minority Teachers.

“South Carolina State University's legislative priorities are important to the success of this institution, which serves as a statewide resource. Our day in the legislature is an opportunity for us to discuss with members of the General Assembly funding opportunities that will have a positive impact on our institution and benefit the students we serve,” said President Andrew Hugine, Jr.

“South Carolina State University Day in the Legislature” will be followed by a 6 p.m. reception at the Clarion TownHouseHotel, 1615 Gervais Street, which is sponsored by SC State’s Board of Trustees and will feature entertainment by the university’s jazz ensemble.